January 22, 2018

Images: Tracking Unexploded Munitions

Munitions dropped decades ago on desolate coasts often show up today in areas that have become more developed and inhabited. (Peter Traykovski, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)

WHOI scientist Peter Traykovski has developed an undersea apparatus equipped with instruments that measure waves, currents, and the movement of sand and mud, to learn how UXOs are moved and/or buried. (Jayne Doucette, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)

WHOI scientist Peter Traykovski and his colleagues place objects that mimic munitions on the seafloor off the coast. Each object is equipped with transponders that send out acoustic signals. Instruments placed on the seafloor “hear” the acoustic signals, which let scientists track how the objects move over time. (Peter Traykovski, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)

Along with instruments placed on the seafloor, WHOI scientist Peter Traykovski also uses an autonomous vehicle called a Jetyak to study how unexploded munitions may be moved and/or buried on the seafloor in coastal waters. (Peter Traykovski, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)

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